Overview of Claremont

A charming, quiet town in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Claremont has captivated generations of students headed to its highly regarded colleges. With pretty tree-lined streets and a thriving downtown, the community has a distinct small town feel despite its convenient Inland Empire location.

For students and others looking for apartments for rent in Claremont, the town offers an education-friendly environment, pleasant climate and great set of activities for a range of lifestyles.

Living in Claremont, CA

Originally the domain of the Serrano Indians, the area that is now Claremont saw its first substantial growth as a community in 1887 with the construction of the Santa Fe Railroad. Although the railroad never brought the expected wave of settlers, the foundation that year of Pomona College, a “New England style” liberal arts college, helped drive local activity and led the town in its future direction as a home to education. Over the next 80 years, four more liberal arts colleges were founded as part of the Claremont Colleges consortium, helping to give the town its character. The early 20th century was also a time of growth for the local citrus industry, which shaped the town’s culture and contributed to its leafy landscape.

Today, the citrus plantations have largely given way to residential development, making Claremont the well-shaded home to around 35,000 people. People living in Claremont apartments can take advantage of the downtown area known as the Village, where a range of shops and restaurants border the scenic local campuses. With the cultural resources of both the Claremont Colleges and the local arts scene, there is always something interesting going on in town.

Claremont Work and Study

As the home to Claremont Colleges, a consortium that includes Pomona College, Scripps College, Claremont McKenna College, Harvey Mudd College and Pitzer College, as well as the Claremont Graduate University and the Keck Graduate Institute of Applied Life Sciences, Claremont is thoroughly a college town.

With so many educational resources in town, it’s no surprise that the field of education is Claremont’s biggest employer. More than one-fifth of residents work for either the Claremont Colleges or the Claremont United School District. However, Claremont is also home to local manufacturing company Hi-Rel Connectors and a major regional auto sales strip. Many residents also choose to commute to nearby Los Angeles or elsewhere in the San Bernardino Valley.

Rentals in Claremont, CA and Cost of Living

With so many college students in town, Claremont is relatively renter-friendly and affordable for Southern California. Around one-third of residents choose to rent. A walkable downtown and campus area, as well as rail access to downtown LA, make it possible to enjoy Claremont without a car, a cost-saving rarity for the region.

Data from the U.S. Census Bureau showed the median gross rent from 2008 to 2010 was $1,194. Additional research found one bedroom apartments renting for between $575 and $1,575 per month.

Claremont Attractions and Special Events

While the Claremont Colleges are a major resource for local arts and events, there is plenty to do in Claremont without ever setting foot on campus. Not only does the Village provide a wide range of great dining, art and shopping, it is also home to popular events like the Claremont Farmers & Artisans Market, concerts, holiday events and walking tours of local art, architecture, food and college history. The annual Village Venture Arts & Crafts Faire is the largest autumn craft fair in the Inland Valley and a popular showcase for local artists.

Claremont’s naturally beautiful location also makes it a great place for outdoor activities. Local parks like the 1,600 acre Claremont Hills Wilderness Park or the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, which showcases native California plants provide ample opportunities to retreat into nature, while the nearby Angeles National Forest gives residents even more opportunity to get away. With the world-class shopping, dining, nightlife and entertainment of Los Angeles close by as well, Claremont residents will find something to do no matter their interests.

To find your next rental apartment or house in Claremont, take a look at our listings on Rent.com®.

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